Haines, My Way: Man’s best friend

Ever think about the phrase “man’s best friend,” which refers to dogs? They’re either yappy, little ankle-biters or big, clumsy, loud headaches. And I don’t know where we’d be without them.

Rebecca Haines

Ever think about the phrase “man’s best friend,” which refers to dogs?

They’re either yappy, little ankle-biters or big, clumsy, loud headaches. And I don’t know where we’d be without them. Sometimes those four-legged fur balls are what hold us together as people, in ways of compassion, unconditional love and fun. It all dates back to the beginning of time.

I sometimes try to imagine what it must have been like for Adam when he first lived on Earth. It’s nice to think Adam was a sentimental person, with emotional needs. As much as men try to deny it, they do, ladies. But in that time before woman, I wonder where Adam’s love fell.

Was it upon God? Or the many animals newly created? Was it the beautiful nature all around him?

Well, in my mind, I like to think Adam had a dog.

You see, Adam needed someone. Someone who would always love him, who would never hurt him, who would do everything to make him happy and feel wanted, needed and loved.

The animal perfectly fits the description of what a person needs. Without other human contact, I’ve come to believe there would be an irreplaceable void. But a dog can certainly help with that special interaction.

I’ve seen people spend literally hundreds of dollars on insulin, veterinarian visits and pampering treatments for a little puffball generally named “Precious.” It always sounds ridiculous to me, because after 13 years, it’s natural for the animal to want to kick it. But you have to realize: To some people, that little critter is the world.

To some, dogs are not only family members and friends, they’re co-workers as well. The average person wakes up in the morning, takes his or her dog outside, and then bids the dog farewell before heading off to work. Imagine going to work with your dog every day on top of that.

It might be hard to understand this, but cattle dogs, sheep dogs and trail dogs all have a co-worker mentality. And trust me, they take pride in what they do. From what I’ve seen, those work dogs are loved just as much, if not more, than the average pup, and the love is clearly returned.

It’s a love not explained in words. It’s not in pricey, red packaging that only comes on certain days of the year. It’s shown by the consistent journey they share with us. It will never run away, it will warn you when something is wrong. And it will comfort you when you are down.

That’s how I see it. And I don’t think it’s coincidence that backwards, dog is spelled God, because behind those eyes is an indestructible love.